
If you have recently moved into a new house and are looking for an attractive, yet functional floor covering, it is important to understand the different types of flooring available on the market. Bamboo, vinyl plank, and engineered wood are just some of the choices you have. These floor coverings are durable, beautiful, and can provide the right finish for any room.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood flooring can be the ideal option to protect your flooring from water damage. This type of floor is more resistant to moisture than solid hardwood flooring and can be installed in high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Unlike solid hardwood floors, waterproof engineered flooring is made of a variety of materials. Some are laminate, while others are vinyl or stone. Aside from being waterproof, these products also mimic the natural wood-grain look.
Waterproof wood flooring is a great choice for full bathrooms. It’s durable, easy to clean and is not susceptible to water damage. Besides, it can last for decades, unlike other types of flooring.
However, when choosing a flooring material, it’s important to note that not all are created equal. Some are more expensive than others. Those that are manufactured from real wood, such as solid hardwood, are more durable and have a better resale value.
Engineered wood is also stronger than solid wood. It has a solid wood top layer, a waterproof core, and multiple wood-composite layers for dimensional stability.
Laminate
Waterproof laminate flooring is a product made to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This is made possible by special coatings, installation techniques, and materials. Laminates come in a variety of designs, colors, and species. Some floors are designed to look like a floating floor while others can be installed in many different parts of the home.
Laminate floors are typically laid one by one, using interlocking edges. It is a good idea to seal the seams to prevent leaks from damaging the floor. You can also try placing a moisture barrier under the subfloor.
If you are looking for something a little less expensive, you can opt for luxury vinyl flooring. These products come in planks and tiles. Their waterproof features are limited, however.
Another option is to install a waterproof laminate floor in the bathroom or basement. In these locations, the humidity may be higher. Traditional laminate does a good job of handling most surface spills.
Vinyl plank
Vinyl planks are a popular option for a variety of reasons. These durable floors are waterproof and offer an attractive appearance that is easy to care for. They are also available in a wide range of colors and styles. The installation process is simple and quick.
There are many different types of vinyl planks, and they’re available in a variety of thicknesses and finishes. You can find luxury vinyl planks that look like wood, stone, or tile.
Rigid core vinyl planks are a type of luxury vinyl flooring that is highly durable and resistant to moisture. These planks are a great choice for high traffic areas and are easy to clean.
If you’re considering vinyl planks for your home, you should first consider the type of floor you want. Some are designed to be waterproof while others require regular sweeping or mopping. In either case, you’ll need to apply a spot treatment to your floors.
Bamboo
If you’re a bamboo flooring enthusiast, you may have wondered if the material is water resistant. While it’s true that the natural fibers can absorb moisture from the environment, some types of bamboo do not have uniform density and can be damaged by excess moisture.
You can protect your bamboo flooring from water damage with mats placed in high traffic areas and in the sun. Similarly, you can also install a waterproof expansion gap.
Water damage can occur even with proper care. Excessive moisture can cause warping, discoloration, and swelling of the bamboo. Unlike solid hardwood, it will not come out in a simple refinishing process.
Excessive exposure to moisture can lead to bacteria growth. Consequently, you should not put bamboo flooring in rooms where humidity is extreme.
Bathrooms can be particularly susceptible to water damage. They often have a combination of wet floors, plumbing leaks, and exposed pipes. Likewise, basements can be susceptible to flooding and extreme temperature changes.